Luzma Fabiola Nava Jiménez

Luzma Fabiola Nava Jiménez examined the water governance regime in river basins which cross the USA/Mexico border.

The Rio Grande/Bravo is a lifeline of to the desert in northern Mexico and southwest USA, however, it suffers from both low rainfall and a high level of pollution, leading to low water quantity and quality.

I use qualitative research methods to assess stakeholders’ perspectives and to build potential policy directions based on their insights. Along with a survey, I have built also a set of indicators to assess water governance in these river basins.

Based on the survey conducted with key stakeholders, it is possible to say that the US – Mexico water regime has given good results in terms of quantitative water allocation in the past. However, the system could be improved if both countries agree on the need to adapt the water resources regime, and to jointly advance water resources sustainability and management in order to better respond to current and future needs. The potential to move forward with a new institutional arrangement within the current allocation framework already exists.

The US-Mexico water resources framework is subject to broad interpretation and may be adapted to the circumstances taking the fullest advantage of its flexibility. However, political will is still necessary to achieve change.